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DAVID ARTHUR KELLY NANASANAKWUT PIZHEW  Obituary pic

DAVID ARTHUR KELLY NANASANAKWUT PIZHEW

Born: Jun 03, 1976

Date of Passing: Mar 30, 2008

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DAVID ARTHUR KELLY NANASANAKWUT PIZHEW June 3, 1976 - March 30, 2008 On March 30, 2008, suddenly, David Arthur Kelly, beloved son of Fred Kelly and his late mother Sharlene, respected and loved by his older brothers Bradford (Jill) and Donald (Wendi), passed away to join his mother. Also mourning his loss are his many aunts, uncles and cousins whose lives he deeply touched with his light and spirit. David was born in Winnipeg at St. Boniface Hospital on June 3, 1976. He was the bundle of joy his brothers had been harping about, pestering their parents to give them a little brother. As he grew, and despite the age difference between them, David and his brothers were always close. They'd read Highlights together, watch movies, wrestle in the living room and swim in the pool for hours. He attended Ecole Guyot where, immersed in the French language, he became bilingual at an early age. He later attended Beliveau Collegiate in Windsor Park. David was always interested in the arts and he attended the University of Manitoba Fine Arts program where he drew, painted, wrote and performed music and exhibited his works in art shows there. David was an active child and took after his brothers from an early age. From Don, he learned to play guitar at age three and by age twelve was giving virtuoso solo performances at the Cultural Centre Franco Manitobain. They also shared a similar taste in music. From Brad he developed a keen interest in hockey and football and they would spend winter days at the rink in Southdale. He looked up to his brothers and they, in turn, always encouraged his interests. From his father Fred, David developed an interest in, and appreciation for, Native spirituality and he drew much comfort and wisdom from it. He participated with his father in traditional ceremonies and learned to do many by himself. The most profound influence on David's life, however, was his mother Sharlene. She taught him to be a giving, compassionate, caring, selfless person. She cheered him on, cheered him up and encouraged him in all of his interests and pursuits. Hers was a selfless love and her devotion to his care and well-being made her truly happy in life. David's lasting passion was music. He was always in a band and was constantly writing and performing. He was a founding member of the band Kittens, recording albums and touring extensively. His musical talents took him to Los Angeles where he vigorously pursued a career as a professional musician. He wrote songs and lyrics and played guitar, drums and bass in several bands, notably The Guinevere Project, The Distants, Echo Hawk and Puppies and Kittens. He also shared his gifts by teaching music to young children. David was a gifted, caring, compassionate person and always tried to accommodate the needs and wishes of others, often to the detriment of his own. He had so much more to give the world. His untimely passing has left his family and friends with an emptiness, but with memories filled with his smile, humour, generosity, talent and love. A gathering of family and friends will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2008 at Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodiere Blvd. (south of the Royal Canadian Mint). GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 455 LAGIMODIERE BLVD 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 05, 2008

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

  • I just simply looked up who the Kittens drummer was when I’d go to the shows at the West End Cultural Centre. Yes, there were others. But these shows were where they tested talent. His tribal style drumming was unlike anything I’ve heard. Almost three decades later I’ve never heard that same sound. When you think you e heard everything you can hear out of one instrument someone comes along to change that frame of mind. I’m so glad I got the chance to tell him after that show how good he was. The shy guy with his girl just said “ thank u”. That was it. Maybe he never heard it as much as he should have ….. without his head being inflated of course :). - Posted by: Reid Jackson (Bass player/concert slut ) on: Dec 11, 2023

  • Dave was my ex's best friend for years. He was at my place pretty much every night, either watching hockey or playing it. I miss his laugh, his smile and his sweet sweet nature. He randomly popped into my head tonight. I miss that man. I wish I had had the chance to see him now as adult. My best is saddened by this unnecessary loss. I miss you Dave, I wish I could talk with you again. Love and light my dear friend, love and light. XOXOXO'S - Posted by: Cheryl Johnstone (Old friend) on: Apr 16, 2018

  • It’s hard to believe that someone I held as a baby and watched grow into a talented, beautiful young man is no longer with us. Your presence and your absence are felt deeply every day. Memories? There are so many. Dancing together, reading Highlights, making music together and laughing - so much laughing! - throughout your life. Mother once said, gazing at you as an infant, "such a loving little soul." Like everything Mom said, she was right. You mean the world to me, Dave. I'm so sorry you had to leave us. Peace and love, my beloved little Brother! - Posted by: Don Kelly (Family) on: Mar 25, 2009

  • His love for others, his desire to give and his earthly talents were his true gifts to us. He taught us much about the strength of the human spirit, the capacity to love and forgive and of the willingness of the heart to reach out and love unconditionally. The children he taught, the friends he cared about and the family he loved, and who loved him back, will all miss him. I just wish we could say once more David, how much we love you and how much you mean to us and to please, don't go. - Posted by: Bradford Kelly (Family) on: Apr 28, 2008

  • My heart goes out to the Kelly's, my childhood neighbours and friends. I grew up with David, my brother James' best childhood buddy, and we spent so many hours at your home, enjoying all of you. The news of your recent losses, brings me to tears, and I send you my warmest regards at this challenging time. May David find solace and comfort in the welcoming company of his ancestors, and may his voice continue to sing in our souls, till we meet again. Love, and blessings, Teresa Wood. - Posted by: Teresa Wood (Friend) on: Apr 07, 2008

  • My name is Michael Holley. I was David's manager at Sam Ash where David and I worked together for 2.5 years until I was transfered to Cincinnati. From the moment I met David I knew this was a kindered spirit. We shared the same birthday, love of guitars, fishing, nature and much more. I took him under my wing and I loved him like a brother and a son. He was an amazing person and I will never ever let him out of my heart for as long as I live. - Posted by: Michael Holley (Friend) on: Apr 06, 2008

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